Mills Park is the home of the Kenwick Football Club. Go and have a look if ever you get the chance. In fact make the time – it’s magnificent. When launched in 2016 this State Government/City of Gosnells project was hailed as WA’s “… first 6-Star Green Star public building…”.

There were people everywhere when we visited – watching the footy, enjoying the cafe, walking dogs, doing things community centres are supposed to encourage.

Kenwick Football Club was established in 1948. I researched this by reading the back of a player’s polo shirt while waiting at the cafe. The Royals dominated the final years of the Sunday Football League winning premierships in 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006 under coach Mick Hanley and then his brother Gavin.

The most famous Kenwick player is 1958 Sandover Medal Ted Kilmurray who coached the Royals after his stellar career with East Perth (the Royals).

A new scoreboard was constructed for the new-look footy ground and we’re pleased the club decided not to go digital. It’s a long low design favoured by nearby Thornlie. Kenwick now plays in the Perth Football League (formerly WAAFL).

Scoreboard attendant Kane is enjoying his first season in the job. “You get to see a lot of footy,” he said. The Kenwick reserves aren’t enjoying their season too much so we decided to put up a flattering score for our main photo while the teams were warming up. It proved to be a good idea…